SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. – The Shaw community activity center held the fourth annual Boo Bash in celebration of Halloween Oct. 27.
Little ghouls and goblins enjoyed the activities and experienced the Halloween tradition of dressing up in costumes and receiving candy. Among the festivities this year was “trunk-or-treat,” in which participants decorated the trunks of cars and vehicles in Halloween trimmings and handed out candy in the center’s parking lot.
“We want this to be a safe environment,” explained Jack Lonergan, 20th Force Support Squadron community activity center director. “The candy given out is going to be from a military person, family member, unit or one of our sponsors, so we know what the kids are getting is safe.”
Stretching down Recreation Street and wrapping around the bowling alley, a line of eager super heroes, witches and family members waited for the start of Boo Bash and trunk-or-treat.
“We expect about 2,000 children and family members this year,” Lonergan said. “Last year we had over 2,000 people show up, so we are expecting about the same.”
In addition to trunk-or treat the youth center sponsored a carnival that included a costume contest for four different age groups and best-dressed family, as well as 10 different carnival-style games ranging from a toilet bowl challenge to a fishing game.
“This year we actually have a free hot chocolate stand since last year everyone was really cold,” said Deborah MacQueen, 20th Force Support Squadron youth center director. “We also have some new games like the witch’s hat ring toss.”
The Boo Bash is an alternative to going downtown, said Lonergan. Not only does it bring the Team Shaw community together in a safe environment but the kids have fun, he added.
For those unable to attend Shaw’s annual Boo Bash, trick-or-treating will be held at Shaw on Oct. 31, from 5-8 p.m. in the base housing area.